The name Arjun has its origins in Sanskrit, an ancient Indo-Aryan language that was predominant in the Indian subcontinent. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "arjuna," which means "bright," "shining," or "silver." The name is believed to have been in use since the Vedic period, which spans from around 1500 BCE to 500 BCE.

One of the earliest and most significant references to the name Arjun can be found in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. In this ancient Sanskrit text, Arjun (or Arjuna) is the name of one of the central characters, a skilled archer and warrior who was part of the Pandava brothers. His story and role in the Mahabharata have made the name Arjun a popular choice among Hindus, particularly in India.

The earliest recorded use of the name Arjun can be traced back to around the 5th century BCE. One of the most famous historical figures with this name was Arjun Dev (1035-1094 CE), a ruler of the Paramara dynasty who reigned over the region of Malwa in central India. He was known for his military conquests and his patronage of art and literature.

Another notable bearer of the name was Arjun Singh (1503-1530 CE), a military leader and the founder of the Bundela Rajput clan in the northern Indian region of Bundelkhand. He played a significant role in establishing the Bundela kingdom and is remembered for his bravery and leadership skills.

In more recent history, Arjun Singh (1930-2011) was an Indian politician who served as the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh and later as the Minister of Human Resource Development in the Indian government. He was known for his efforts to promote education and social welfare initiatives.

Arjun Atwal (born 1973) is a professional golfer from India who has won several tournaments on the PGA Tour and the Asian Tour. He became the first Indian-born player to win on the PGA Tour when he captured the Wyndham Championship in 2010.

The name Arjun has been popular across various regions of India, particularly in the northern and central parts of the country. Its strong connection to Hindu mythology and its association with valor, strength, and nobility have contributed to its widespread use over the centuries.